How can we apply the manager's shrewdness in our spiritual lives? Setting the Scene • Luke 16:7 captures one moment in Jesus’ parable of the unrighteous manager: “Then he asked another, ‘How much do you owe?’ ‘A hundred measures of wheat,’ he replied. ‘Take your bill,’ said the manager, ‘and write eighty.’” • The steward knows he is about to lose his position. By reducing the debts, he secures future goodwill and hospitality. • Jesus is not endorsing dishonesty; He commends the steward’s foresight and skillful use of present resources for future benefit (Luke 16:8). What the Manager Modeled • Foresight—he thought beyond the immediate crisis. • Initiative—he acted quickly before the door closed. • Leveraging resources—he used what was still under his control. • Relationship-building—he recognized the value of favor with others. Lessons in Godly Shrewdness • Eternal perspective – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:34) – Invest earthly opportunities in ways that produce eternal results—sharing the gospel, supporting missions, discipling others. • Strategic generosity – “Make friends for yourselves with worldly wealth, so that when it is gone, they will welcome you into eternal dwellings.” (Luke 16:9) – Give purposefully to kingdom work; use resources to create gospel access and relationships. • Prompt obedience – “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10) – Don’t delay in acts of service, repentance, or reconciliation. • Wise engagement in a fallen world – “Be as shrewd as serpents and as innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16) – Combine moral integrity with strategic thinking. Practical Applications Today ▸ Budget with eternity in mind—set aside a deliberate portion for evangelism, mercy ministries, and kingdom partnerships. ▸ Network for gospel impact—cultivate friendships not merely for personal advantage but to open doors for witness and discipleship. ▸ Redeem moments—turn daily conversations, social media, and work projects toward Christ-honoring ends. ▸ Plan your legacy—write a will, establish charitable giving, and mentor younger believers so that your resources outlive you. ▸ Evaluate opportunities—before committing time or money, ask how each choice can advance God’s purposes. A Few Cross-References • Proverbs 27:12—“A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself; the simple keep going and suffer for it.” • 1 Peter 4:10—“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” • 2 Corinthians 9:6–7—generosity yields eternal fruit and cheerful giving honors God. Summing Up The parable urges believers to match spiritual conviction with sanctified cleverness—using every God-given resource, moment, and relationship so that when temporal stewardship ends, eternal dividends remain. |
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